Urinary Incontinence Treatment Phoenix: Stop Bladder Leakage Permanently
End the embarrassment of bladder leakage. Get 10-20 years of relief with FDA-approved sacral neuromodulation therapy.
You've been living with bladder leakage for too long. The protective pads you change multiple times a day. The constant fear of visible accidents. The social events you avoid. The exercise routines you've abandoned. The intimacy issues that strain your relationships. You've tried pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle changes, and medications that barely made a difference.
Here's what most Phoenix residents with urinary incontinence don't know: you don't have to accept bladder leakage as a permanent part of your life. At Bladder Centers of America, we offer a proven treatment that provides 10-20 years of relief from urinary incontinence through a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
Dr. Tory McJunkin specializes in sacral nerve stimulation using the FDA-approved Axonics System, helping Phoenix-area patients regain bladder control and confidence. If you're tired of managing leakage and ready for a real solution, you're in the right place.
📞 Stop hiding your incontinence. Start living freely.
Call 480-757-8777 to schedule your free consultation at our North Phoenix location.
What Is Urinary Incontinence? Understanding the Condition Stealing Your Confidence
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine. It's not just a normal part of aging, despite what many people believe. It's a medical condition affecting over 25 million Americans, yet most suffer in silence due to embarrassment. The truth is, incontinence is treatable, and you don't have to live with it.
Bladder control depends on complex coordination between your bladder muscles, sphincter muscles, pelvic floor, and the nerves that control them. When any part of this system malfunctions, leakage occurs. The type of incontinence you have determines the best treatment approach.
The Four Main Types of Urinary Incontinence
1. Stress Incontinence (Physical Activity Leaks)
Stress incontinence occurs when physical pressure on your bladder causes leakage. You leak when you cough, sneeze, laugh, exercise, lift heavy objects, or even stand up from a seated position. This happens because your pelvic floor muscles and urethral sphincter are weakened and can't handle the increased abdominal pressure. It's the most common type of incontinence in women, especially after childbirth or menopause.
2. Urge Incontinence (Can't Make It in Time)
Urge incontinence, also called overactive bladder with incontinence, involves sudden, intense urges to urinate followed by involuntary leakage. You feel a powerful need to go and can't reach the bathroom in time. This occurs when your bladder muscle contracts involuntarily due to misfiring nerve signals. Many patients describe it as having zero warning before leaking.
3. Mixed Incontinence (Both Stress and Urge)
Mixed incontinence combines symptoms of both stress and urge incontinence. You leak during physical activity AND experience sudden, overwhelming urges that lead to accidents. This is common in women over 50 and can be particularly frustrating because you're dealing with two different types of leakage requiring potentially different treatments.
4. Overflow Incontinence (Bladder Doesn't Empty)
Overflow incontinence happens when your bladder doesn't empty completely, leading to frequent dribbling or constant small leaks. You might feel like your bladder is never fully empty. This is more common in men with prostate problems but can affect anyone with nerve damage or bladder outlet obstruction.
Sacral neuromodulation is particularly effective for urge incontinence and mixed incontinence. During your consultation, Dr. McJunkin will determine which type you have and whether you're a candidate for this treatment.
Why Traditional Urinary Incontinence Treatments Don't Work Long-Term
You've probably tried multiple treatments already. Kegel exercises that didn't stop the leaking. Medications with brutal side effects and minimal improvement. Bladder training schedules that felt like a second job. Protective pads that cost a fortune and don't address the problem. Here's why these approaches fail most patients:
The Medication Myth
Anticholinergic medications (Oxybutynin, Tolterodine, Solifenacin) and beta-3 agonists (Myrbetriq) work for some patients, but research shows 80% stop taking them within one year. Why?
- Severe side effects: Dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, cognitive impairment, dizziness, and urinary retention
- Limited effectiveness: These drugs only work for urge incontinence, not stress incontinence
- Temporary relief: You only get symptom management while taking the pill daily, forever
- Declining results: Your body adapts and effectiveness diminishes over time
Physical Therapy Limitations
Pelvic floor physical therapy and Kegel exercises help mild cases, especially stress incontinence. But if you have moderate to severe incontinence or urge incontinence caused by nerve dysfunction, strengthening muscles won't fix misfiring nerve signals. You've likely already tried:
- Kegel exercises (months of effort with minimal improvement)
- Bladder training schedules (rigid bathroom timing that doesn't stop urgency)
- Lifestyle modifications (avoiding caffeine, losing weight, limiting fluids)
- Biofeedback therapy (expensive sessions with inconsistent results)
The Pad Trap
Protective pads and adult diapers don't treat incontinence - they just manage the aftermath. You're spending $30-$80 per month on products that don't address the underlying problem. Over 10 years, that's $3,600-$9,600 in supplies alone, plus the emotional cost of living with constant leakage.
The Bladder Centers of America Solution: Sacral Neuromodulation That Restores Control
At Bladder Centers of America, we don't just manage your incontinence symptoms - we treat the underlying nerve dysfunction causing your bladder leakage using the most advanced FDA-approved technology: the Axonics Sacral Neuromodulation System.
How Sacral Neuromodulation Works
Think of it as a pacemaker for your bladder. Just as a cardiac pacemaker regulates your heartbeat through gentle electrical signals, sacral neuromodulation regulates bladder and pelvic floor function through mild electrical pulses delivered to the sacral nerves.
A small, rechargeable device (about the size of a USB drive) is placed under the skin of your upper buttock. A thin wire connects to the S3 sacral nerve, which controls bladder, bowel, and pelvic floor function. The device sends gentle electrical impulses that "retrain" the miscommunication between your brain and bladder, restoring normal control.
Why the Axonics System Is Superior
Dr. McJunkin exclusively uses the Axonics System because it offers significant advantages:
Rechargeable Battery
Lasts 10-20 years without replacement surgery. Older devices require battery replacement every 3-5 years.
65% Smaller
The smallest neuromodulation device available. Most patients can't feel it after healing.
Full-Body MRI Safe
Unlike older devices that restrict MRI access, Axonics is completely MRI compatible.
Simple Wireless Charging
Recharge for 30-60 minutes every 2-4 weeks through your clothing. No wires, no hassle.
Clinical Results: Real Numbers from Real Patients
We don't make promises we can't keep. Here are the documented results from FDA clinical trials:
- Up to 80% reduction in incontinence episodes for patients with urge incontinence
- 75-85% patient success rate across all studies
- Significant improvement in quality of life measured by standardized questionnaires
- Sustained effectiveness beyond 5 years in the majority of patients
- High patient satisfaction with most reporting they would choose the treatment again
One Phoenix patient told us, "I went from changing pads 4-5 times a day and avoiding leaving the house to complete bladder control. I can exercise again. I can travel. I feel like myself for the first time in years."
Treatment Options Compared: Why Sacral Neuromodulation Wins
Sacral Neuromodulation
- 10-20 years of relief
- Addresses nerve dysfunction
- One-time procedure
- 75-85% success rate
- Minimal side effects
- FDA approved
- Insurance covered
Medications
- Daily pills forever
- Only masks symptoms
- 80% discontinue in 1 year
- Severe side effects
- Effectiveness declines
- Ongoing cost
Protective Products
- No treatment, just management
- $30-80/month ongoing cost
- Doesn't stop leakage
- Embarrassing to wear
- Environmental waste
- No improvement
Ready to Stop Living in Fear of Leakage?
Schedule your free consultation with Dr. McJunkin. Find out if sacral neuromodulation can give you the bladder control and confidence you deserve.
Call 480-757-8777 NowYour Journey to Bladder Control: What to Expect
We believe in complete transparency. Here's exactly what happens from your first call to long-term results:
Step 1: Free Phone Consultation (15 Minutes)
Call 480-757-8777 or complete our online form. We'll discuss your symptoms, previous treatments, and medical history to determine if you're a potential candidate. No pressure, just honest assessment.
Step 2: In-Person Evaluation with Dr. McJunkin (60 Minutes)
Meet with Dr. McJunkin at our North Phoenix office. He'll review your history, perform an examination, explain how the treatment works, show you the device, and answer all your questions. We'll discuss insurance coverage and costs. This consultation is completely free.
Step 3: Trial Period - Test Before You Commit (1-2 Weeks)
Before permanent implantation, you'll undergo a trial period. A temporary lead is placed near your sacral nerve through a tiny incision (local anesthetic, done in our office). You'll wear an external device for 1-2 weeks while tracking symptoms. This lets you experience the benefits before committing. If you don't achieve at least 50% improvement, we don't proceed to permanent implantation.
Step 4: Permanent Implantation (60-90 Minutes, Outpatient)
If your trial succeeds, we schedule the permanent implant. Done under light sedation or general anesthesia at an outpatient surgery center. Two small incisions. You go home the same day. Most patients return to normal activities within 3-5 days.
Step 5: Programming & Optimization (2-8 Weeks)
After healing, you'll return for device programming. We adjust settings wirelessly to optimize your results. Completely painless. Most patients need 2-3 sessions over the first couple months.
Step 6: Long-Term Maintenance (Minimal Effort)
Recharge for 30-60 minutes every 2-4 weeks by placing the wireless charger over your clothing. Annual check-ins to ensure everything works perfectly. Device lasts 10-20 years.
Are You a Candidate for Sacral Neuromodulation?
This treatment works exceptionally well for the right patients. Here's who benefits most:
✓ You're an Ideal Candidate If:
- You have urge incontinence or mixed incontinence
- You've tried conservative treatments (medications, pelvic floor therapy) without adequate relief
- Your incontinence significantly impacts your daily life and quality of life
- You're looking for a long-term solution, not ongoing symptom management
- You're healthy enough for a minor outpatient procedure
- You're willing to commit to a trial period to test effectiveness
- You can operate the charging system and attend follow-up appointments
✗ This Treatment May Not Be Right If:
- You have only mild stress incontinence well-controlled with pelvic floor exercises
- You haven't tried conservative treatments first
- You have certain neurological conditions (we'll assess during consultation)
- You have active pelvic infection or skin issues in the implant area
- You have other underlying conditions better treated differently
The only way to know for sure is to talk with Dr. McJunkin. He's evaluated thousands of patients and will give you an honest assessment. If this treatment isn't right for you, he'll recommend appropriate alternatives.
Real Phoenix Patients, Real Bladder Control Restored
"I couldn't exercise, couldn't sneeze without leaking, couldn't play with my grandchildren. I tried pelvic floor therapy for six months with minimal improvement. The trial period convinced me this treatment would work - I had an 80% reduction in leakage episodes in just one week. After the permanent implant, I'm completely dry. I'm back to hiking, yoga, and living without fear of accidents."
*Example testimonial representing typical patient experience
"The urgency was unbearable. I'd feel the need to go and couldn't make it to the bathroom in time. I was changing pads 5-6 times a day. I stopped going out with friends. I was depressed and isolated. This treatment gave me my life back. I have normal bladder control now. I can go to dinner, to the movies, on road trips - all the things I avoided for years."
*Example testimonial representing typical patient experience
"I tried every medication on the market. All of them had terrible side effects and barely worked. My doctor suggested this treatment and I was skeptical about having something implanted. Dr. McJunkin explained everything clearly and the trial period proved it worked for me. Now I don't leak, I don't take daily medications, and I don't worry about accidents. I wish I'd done this years ago."
*Example testimonial representing typical patient experience
Frequently Asked Questions About Urinary Incontinence Treatment
What is urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the involuntary loss of urine. It ranges from occasional small leaks when coughing or sneezing (stress incontinence) to sudden, overwhelming urges that result in not making it to the bathroom in time (urge incontinence). It affects over 25 million Americans and can significantly impact quality of life, but it is treatable and not just a normal part of aging.
How much does urinary incontinence treatment cost in Phoenix?
Sacral neuromodulation for urinary incontinence typically ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 for complete treatment. However, this is covered by most insurance plans and Medicare. Medicare patients typically pay $2,000-$4,500 out-of-pocket (deductible + 20% coinsurance). Private insurance patients average $3,000-$8,000 depending on their specific plan. Our insurance team verifies benefits and provides detailed cost estimates before treatment.
What are the types of urinary incontinence?
The main types are: (1) Stress incontinence - leakage during physical activity like coughing, sneezing, or exercise; (2) Urge incontinence - sudden overwhelming need to urinate with leakage before reaching the bathroom; (3) Mixed incontinence - combination of stress and urge; (4) Overflow incontinence - bladder doesn't empty completely leading to dribbling. Each type may require different treatment approaches. Sacral neuromodulation is particularly effective for urge and mixed incontinence.
Does sacral neuromodulation work for urinary incontinence?
Yes, clinical studies show sacral neuromodulation has a 75-85% success rate for urinary incontinence, particularly urge and mixed incontinence. Patients typically experience up to 80% reduction in leakage episodes and significant improvement in quality of life. The treatment is FDA-approved, covered by Medicare and most insurance, and has sustained effectiveness beyond 5 years in the majority of patients. We ensure it works for you through a trial period before permanent implantation.
Is urinary incontinence treatment permanent?
Sacral neuromodulation provides long-term relief for 10-20 years with the Axonics rechargeable system. Unlike medications or pads that only manage symptoms temporarily, this treatment addresses the underlying nerve dysfunction causing incontinence. The rechargeable battery eliminates the need for device replacement surgeries every 3-5 years like older systems required. Most patients experience sustained bladder control for the life of the device.
What's the difference between stress and urge incontinence?
Stress incontinence occurs when physical pressure on the bladder causes leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise. It's caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles. Urge incontinence involves sudden, intense urges to urinate followed by involuntary leakage before reaching the bathroom. It's caused by involuntary bladder muscle contractions due to nerve dysfunction. Many people have mixed incontinence with both types. Treatment approaches differ, and sacral neuromodulation is particularly effective for urge and mixed incontinence.
Can urinary incontinence be cured?
While we cannot use the word "cure" medically, sacral neuromodulation provides long-term control of incontinence symptoms for 10-20 years in most patients. Clinical studies show up to 80% of patients experience significant improvement in leakage episodes and quality of life. This treatment addresses the underlying nerve signals causing incontinence rather than just masking symptoms like medications or pads do. Many patients describe their results as "life-changing" and report complete bladder control.
How long does it take to see results?
Most patients notice improvement within 2-4 weeks as the device is programmed and optimized. Some experience significant relief almost immediately during the trial period. The treatment includes a 1-2 week trial before permanent implantation where many patients see dramatic reduction in incontinence episodes within days. After permanent implantation, there's typically a 2-8 week optimization period where we fine-tune settings to maximize your results.
Is the procedure painful?
The trial lead placement is done with local anesthetic in our office and causes minimal discomfort. The permanent implant procedure is performed under light sedation or general anesthesia, so you feel nothing during the procedure. After surgery, most patients experience mild soreness at the implant sites manageable with over-the-counter pain medication. Most resume normal activities within 3-5 days and return to exercise within 2-4 weeks. This is not major surgery - it's an outpatient procedure with small incisions.
Will insurance cover this treatment?
Yes, sacral neuromodulation is covered by Medicare and most major insurance carriers when medically necessary. Coverage typically requires documentation that you've tried conservative treatments (like medications or pelvic floor therapy) without adequate relief. Our insurance verification team will check your specific coverage, obtain pre-authorization if needed, and provide a detailed cost estimate before you commit to treatment. We accept Medicare and most major insurance plans.
Stop Letting Incontinence Control Your Life
You deserve to live without fear of bladder leakage. To exercise, socialize, and travel with confidence. To feel like yourself again. Schedule your free consultation with Dr. McJunkin and discover if sacral neuromodulation is your path to bladder control.
Call 480-757-8777 Now